"Sometimes people think of modern as machine-made and very cold, and I think natural elements are a nice juxtaposition. I like raw with refined. I like shiny with matte. I like having that yin and yang, if you will. It’s like wearing jeans with a really beautiful shirt, you know?" Thom Filicia from Loft Life's Q & A: Thom Filicia
(Image: Tom Ackerman/Loft Life)




I couldn't say it better... It's exactly how I feel about modern spaces.
This is another amazing one with natural elements-
http://www.houzz.com/photos/19576/12th-Street-apartment-modern-living-room-
view Karen74's profile
I have been looking everywhere for the wallpaper Tom uses in almost all of his projects. I know he cuts each square individually. But what is the source for the wallpaper? Does anyone know?
Thanks!
view jadepwinters's profile
This quote makes a very good point. We often use the word "contrast," but I think "juxtaposition" is a better word. It's not just that blue & orange (raw & refined, metal & wood, casual & formal) juxtaposed works well because they are in contrast -- it's the whole gestalt in how two elements are positioned, what they're made of, etc, that causes one item to visually enhance, and be enhanced by its opposite.
A friend of mine has quite nice furnishings, but I dislike how she combines them. Everything matches!
view kimg924's profile
Can I steal that room?
And I'm inclined to agree that "juxtaposed" is better than "contrasted." He hit the nail on the head with the jeans analogy. If you match jeans with a tee-shirt, it's pretty standard. Same with gorgeous shirt and slacks/skirt. But If you put jeans and a gorgeous shirt together, the jeans dress up, the blouse dresses down and it's just lovely. One of my favorite looks, actually.
view Tiamat_the_Red's profile
I love that painting (of the ocean) anyone have any idea who the artist is?? I know its a longshot that anyone would....
view Steve C's profile
Painting is by Alex Weinstein. California artist.
view seashell's profile
Thank you so much seashell for the name!! I'm obsessed now...
view mabaihua's profile